The article discusses the Greek government's reluctance to lower fuel taxes, particularly in the context of the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by the war. It argues that while the government invokes European regulations and fiscal constraints as reasons for not reducing indirect taxes on fuel, these justifications are convenient alibis that mask underlying policy choices. The author highlights that Greece has one of the highest special fuel taxes in Europe and points out that reductions could be made without requiring approval from Brussels, as other EU countries have already done.

Key figures are provided in the article: Greece's special fuel tax is reported at 0.70 euros per liter, alongside a VAT of 24%. The European minimum for special consumption tax is significantly lower at 0.359 euros, offering room for a tax reduction of 35 cents without needing EU consent. The VAT minimum is set at 15%, which also presents a possibility for lowering taxes further. This situation emphasizes the disparity between Greece’s tax policies and those of other European nations, highlighting a failure to act amidst an ongoing crisis.

The implications of this taxation policy are substantial, especially considering the current economic environment where citizens are feeling the pinch from rising fuel prices. The article suggests that the government's inaction is not due to constraints imposed by the European Union, but rather reflects a reluctance to implement populist measures which might benefit the public in the face of an energy crisis. Thus, it calls into question the priorities of the Greek administration amid financial pressures faced by its citizens.